Sri Lanka-India yacht clubs expand reciprocal access to boost marine tourism

The Chamber of Marine Industry in Sri Lanka (CMISL) and India’s Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC) network, comprising four centers across Chennai, Ennore, Mysuru, and Puducherry, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to extend reciprocal privileges to their members, effective April 3, 2025. 

The MoU was negotiated and facilitated by S. Niranjan Nanthagopan, Managing Director of Indsri Ferry Services Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

The agreement facilitates access to marine facilities and services for members of both organizations without financial commitments, boosting regional maritime collaboration.  

Under the pact, members in good standing from CMISL and RMYC can avail themselves of reciprocal rights by presenting a valid membership card and a Letter of Introduction issued within six months prior to their visit. Privileges remain subject to host club rules, which may supersede the MOU during conflicts, according to the MOU.

Further, host clubs maintain the right to temporarily suspend access during special events or facility constraints.  

CMISL President  Indra Kaushal Rajapakse and RMYC Honorary Secretary Capt. Vivek Shanbhag signed the MOU behalf of the respective entities.

The MOU permits termination by either party with 30 days’ notice and bars local residents from claiming reciprocal access. However, members must clear dues before departing host facilities.